The start of a new year or a significant life transition — whether graduating, moving or experiencing a loss — can offer a powerful opportunity for spiritual reflection. Instead of suppressing our emotions, both the highs and the lows, we can use these moments to connect more deeply with the divine and strengthen our emotional intelligence. When a friend asks how we’re doing, it’s easy to offer a quick response: "Good," "Tired," "Hungry," "Sad" or "Bored." But do we truly understand how we’re feeling when the day ends, when we lie down or when we are left alone with our thoughts? Take a moment to explore what it might look like to sit with your emotions and uncover the true state of your soul.

A key part of reflection is the courage to ask ourselves questions. How can we truly understand our thoughts and feelings if we refuse to ask? Take a moment to pause and reflect, perhaps with a journal or simply by closing your eyes, allowing this to become both an inner conversation with yourself and an open dialogue with God. With your current season in mind, ponder or write to the following questions:

• What has been the most challenging and most rewarding moment?
• Have I learned anything or changed in any way?
• Where have I noticed God's presence?
• What has surprised me?
• What goals do I want to set for the future?
• What are my main priorities and which areas of my life may need adjustment?
• What unique opportunities does this season offer?
• What am I most excited about and what am I most afraid of?

As you answer, be honest with yourself. Invite God into your thoughts, asking for clarity and guidance. The act of offering these questions and responses to Him can bring peace, perspective and a deeper sense of direction.

I believe one of the most powerful aspects of reflection is cultivating a heart of gratitude. Whether we're celebrating moments of great joy and achievement or navigating through hardship, gratitude can shift our perspective. When we focus on what we're thankful for, we begin to live in remembrance of God’s goodness in both the peaks and valleys of life. Take a moment to pause and intentionally reflect on this season. Write down at least 20 things you are thankful for — no matter how big or small, profound or simple, related or unrelated to your area of reflection.

As you do, let each item on your list be a prayer acknowledging the countless ways God has been faithful to you. Gratitude not only draws us closer to Him, but it also grounds us in peace, helping us see the beauty and blessings that are always present.

Another important part of spiritual reflection is examining our spiritual practices. Make a list of your daily, weekly and seasonal rhythms. For instance, hiking, church, reading or being with friends and family. Reflect on which of these brought you energy and joy. Next, take a moment and consider which practices you may want to take away, add or replace given your previous reflection and season of life. Perhaps you feel stressed with your homework load every week, so you commit to spending 10 minutes of your morning in silence and solitude.

Whatever your life looks like right now, having spiritual practices in place can ensure we’re growing in our areas of weakness and being transformed to better reflect Christ.

If you’re interested in learning more about spiritual practices, consider adding a Spiritual Formation and Discipleship minor to your Theology degree or attend GCU’s spiritual formation workshops.